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redsoxdw_

Active member
I need to teach some people how to Greek dance for a wedding, and I wanted to share my notes on the process in case you all have anything to add. I can demo the dances, and I also found some videos online to show people. I was planning to video tape the lesson.

1. Understand the different types of Greek dances

Greek dances range from slow and romantic to fast and energetic. The most popular dances at Greek weddings include the Kalamatianos, Syrtos, Hasapiko, and Tsifteteli. The Kalamatianos is a slow dance in a circular formation, while the Syrtos features a circular line formation with hand-holding. The Hasapiko is a traditional solo dance, and the Tsifteteli is a popular belly dance style. Before you get on the dance floor, it helps to know which type of dance will be performed, so you can prepare yourself accordingly. I have to absolutely teach the kalamatianos since it goes with the traditional song.

2. Get familiar with the music

Greek music is a blend of traditional and modern styles, and often features the use of stringed instruments, like the bouzouki. To prepare for the wedding, listen to a few Greek wedding songs and get familiar with the beats and rhythms. Once you recognize the music, it'll be easier to catch the steps and dance along.

3. Start with the basics

If you're a beginner, don't try to learn the complicated moves right away. Start with the basics and gradually work your way up. For instance, the Kalamatianos starts with a simple step and pivot motion, while the Syrtos features a basic two-step motion. Youtube tutorials can help you learn the steps, but if possible, try to practice with a friend or family member, who can give you feedback and pointers.

4. Practice, practice, practice

Like with any new skill, practice is key. Set aside some time each day to practice the steps until you feel comfortable with the moves. As you practice, pay attention to your posture and footwork, and try to move with the rhythm of the music. Don't worry about getting it perfect, the most important thing is to have fun! We should ideally have more than one practice session, especially with the wedding party. Let's see if I can get everyone together.
 
Also, you should dance on the balls of your feet not flat-footed. Many people don't do this, so it makes them look very stiff and rigid when dancing- this is especially noticeable when you see people dance tsamiko.
 
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Also, you should dance on the balls of your feet not flat-footed. Many people don't do this, so it makes them look very stiff and rigid when dancing- this is especially noticeable when you see people dance tsamiko.

This is such good advice I totally agree!

Also, it drives me crazy when people look at the ground when dancing. Make eye contact with the people watching you - it's a performance! Especially when it's a wedding dance, everyone is watching.

Another dancing pet peeve - the bending and straightening of the leg. A lot of people keep their leg bent the whole time and it creates a hunched over posture that doesn't have as great of an aesthetic.

Again, when it's just random dancing these things are fine, people can do whatever they want, but these are the details that should be cleaned up (if there's enough time) for a wedding dance.
 

Appropriate clothing for Holy Week services?

I was going to wear a floral dress to the service on Good Friday - I pretty much always do - and someone made a comment that they didn't think it's appropriate because it is a service of mourning.

You know, I guess that makes sense - but I haven't that much of it. What are your thoughts on it? I ended up choosing an outfit that looked a little more somber.

I am curious about the best things to wear through Holy Week! I am assuming the really spring-like colors are best on Pascha?

Netflix Show about Alexander the Great

I just noticed there was a show about Alexander the Great on Netflix. How is it?

I have been noticing some buzz that it's fairly controversial, but those who are unhappy about it ... I can't tell if they actually know about him, or if they are just upset about how he was depicted.

I am trying to figure out if I want to watch it so your honest reviews are welcome.

I have studied Alexander the Great a little bit and no a bit about his life, so I am sincerely hoping it's worth my time. I am between shows at the moment.

Getting a Greek costume made?

I'm looking to have a traditional Greek costume made, and I want to ensure that it is as authentic and high-quality as possible.

It's for festival season but I don't know if I am in over my head. This could be anything from the iconic fustanella worn by men to the beautifully embroidered dresses seen in various regions across Greece. I’m open to suggestions on materials, designs, and specific regional styles that would make for a remarkable and authentic piece.

Could anyone here recommend a tailor or a shop—either within Greece or internationally—that specializes in creating traditional Greek clothing? It’s essential that they pay great attention to detail and use high-quality materials to capture the spirit and beauty of Greek traditional attire.

Additionally, if you have any advice on what specifics I should communicate to the tailor to ensure authenticity, or if you know of any resources where I could find patterns or detailed descriptions of traditional costumes, I would greatly appreciate it.

What is kefi exactly?

I have always found the concept of kefi to be intriguing, and I would like to learn more about it from those familiar or even vaguely aware of this notion. From what little I understand, kefi seems to embody a unique blend of joy, spirit, and passion, deeply ingrained in Greek culture. It's more than just a word; it's a lifestyle, a form of expression, an unbridled enthusiasm for life.

However, I'm curious to know about the deeper nuances and applications of kefi. How does kefi manifest in day-to-day life, not just in Greece, but wherever one might find joy and enthusiasm? Is it something that can be consciously cultivated, or does it spontaneously bloom in moments of happiness and high spirits? It seems like it really permeates the culture, especially in Greece.

Why Greeks Roast a Whole Lamb on the Spit on Easter Sunday?

A quote from excellent posting below!
"John, the author of one of the four Gospels, called Jesus the Lamb of God in John 1:29 and John 1:36. In the story, Abraham had to sacrifice an animal, such as a lamb or a ram, as an important part of the Jewish religion. People offered God restitution for the sins they committed.
However, Christians no longer need to engage in sacrifice because Christ died on the cross for their sins, thus becoming the sacrificial lamb."

Since Pascha, or Easter, is the day when we commemorate Jesus’ sacrifice, we eat lamb in remembrance of this selfless act
https://greekreporter.com/2024/05/0...ast+a+Whole+Lamb+on+the+Spit+on+Easter+Sunday
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